This week’s Man Of The Week will be familiar to many of our readers out there, especially those from Toronto. Bryan Brock wears many hats and is involved in numerous city-wide projects and initiatives: he co-founded the iconic Toronto based lifestyle brand called ‘1 LOVE T.O’, serves as a Dean for The Remix Project, a non-profit that aims to serve ‘at-risk’ youth from Toronto’s underserved communities and more recently created ‘The Fitting Room’ a unique men’s barbershop in the heart of downtown Toronto. A common theme in most of Bryan’s work revolves around combining creativity with commerce and community to create brands that have a positive impact on society and people. On of his main focuses is helping youth get the confidence and skills they need to see what is possible and how to tap into their creative talents.
Bryan, along with three others, will be speaking about ‘Confidence’ at the upcoming ManTalks Toronto event on August 22nd. You can expect to hear moving stories from individuals who suffered from low self-esteem and the manner in which they tackled this head on to emerge victorious and successful. Stay tuned for more details!
Age – 36
What do you do? (Work)
I’m a Creative Entrepreneur who likes to build brands and businesses. I’m the Co-Founder and Creative Director for the iconic Toronto-based lifestyle brand 1 LOVE T.O. I’m also the Dean of the Academy of Creative Arts for The Remix Project – a local non-profit organization dedicated to serving ‘at-risk’ youth from Toronto’s underserved communities. Recently, I stepped away from my teaching position at Humber College in the areas of Marketing Strategies and Social Media Strategies. Last but not least, I’m the Co-Owner and Creative Director for The Fitting Room, a unique Men’s Barbershop located in the heart of Dundas St West.
Why do you do it?
I’m an artist at heart, but I love combining my ideas with commerce, especially when it affects positive change in the community.
How do you make a difference in the world?(Work, business, life, family, self)
This is a question better answered by the people that I know and love.
What are 3 defining moments in your life?
– The moment I learned that I was adopted.
– The day I was robbed at gunpoint.
– The day I decided to be a Dad.
What is your life purpose?
To show people it’s possible.
How did you tap into it?
I never had a mentor growing up, and my support system was more negative than positive, so when I had the chance to start making a difference by my actions, I knew that was my purpose.
Who is your Role-Model or Mentor?
My parents are my role-models.
Do you have any daily habits? If so, what are they?
Every day is different.
When do you know your work/life balance is off?
When my health suffers.
Vulnerability is a challenge for most men – share a vulnerable moment from your life with us.
One of my most vulnerable moments was when I got jumped and robbed at gunpoint. I still remember the hopeless feeling I had walking down Yonge Street in the pouring rain wearing only my socks. They had stolen the shoes right off my feet, along with my money and watch. At the time, I was only 13 years old and I wasn’t living in Toronto, so I didn’t know what to do.
What did you learn from it?
I learned that material things come and go, but life is something you can’t replace. I also learned a very important life skill, that’s saved me more than once – being aware of my surroundings.
If you are or were going to be a mentor for another man, what is one piece of advice you would give him?
I’ve mentored many young men, ranging from the ages of 16 to 27, and I’ve always stressed the same thing – to be a better version of themselves each and everyday.
How do you be the best partner? (Boyfriend/Husband – past or present)
Communicate. Love. Motivate. Inspire. Be There.
Do you support any Charities or Not-for-profits?
The Remix Project, SickKids Foundation, Camp Oochigeas, Daily Bread Food Bank
If your life had a theme song, what would it be?
“Bam Bam” by Sister Nancy
Where do you see yourself in 3 years?
No idea. Life changes.
What legacy do you want to leave for future generations?
All I want is for people to take something positive from me and pass it on. If I can be remembered as a person who always made time to help others, I’m content with that.
What One book would you recommend for any Man?
The Tipping Point by Malcolm Gladwell
If you know a Man that is making a positive impact on the world, we would love to hear from you! Contact us at [email protected]
